Pursuit of next-generation electrochemical energy devices

Electrochemical devices such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and batteries, are essential building blocks for an environment-positive and sustainable energy infrastructure. Design and selection of materials and testing conditions heavily influence physiochemical processes and dictate performance, durability, and affordability of clean energy devices. In this paper, we reflect on strategies employed and advances made by the Bazylak Group in the pursuit of next-generation electrochemical clean energy devices. Four essential pillars are identified in our efforts: a) characterization, b) modeling, c) design, and d) implementation. Advances made within each pillar is discussed and the importance of the synergy between these pillars is emphasized. In addition to serving as a resource to highlight discoveries and challenges in developing electrochemical devices, we envision to share and build a generalized approach to advance next-generation materials and processes in clean energy and other diverse applications.